Detection of trace elements in ice and water by laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy

In this work the detection sensitivity of Cu, Mg, Pb, Hg, Cd, Cr and Fe traces in water and ice samples has been investigated under the same experimental conditions by using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy. Plasmas were generated by focusing the fundamental output of a Nd: YAG laser on target surfaces. Limits of detection in ice were found to be six times lower on average compared to measurements from the liquid. The evolution of the plasma electron temperature was similar for both, solid and liquid samples; while the initial electron density was higher in the plasma produced on the solid target.

► A comparison of trace elements detection sensitivity in ice and water samples has been performed by LIBS.
► The limit of detection in ice is 6 times lower in average than those obtained with liquids.
► The initial plasma electron density in ice was found to be larger in ice than that obtained in water.